... it's my effing keloid scar. I honestly can't remember if I've briefed all of you on this albatross around my neck. You all know about the thyroidectomy but did you know that the scar didn't heal properly and I developed a keloid scar ( a raised scar that has a tight, burning sensation that can continue to grow into something incredibly unsightly?).
Anyway, I had the keloid removed and now I have several months of cortizone injections to supress the overacting scar tissue. This is not fun for several reasons. The doctor is notorious for long wait times in the waiting room. I waited for 3 hours today. Also, needles in the neck are never fun, especially when the freezing doesn't take. I kid you not. I had a needle to freeze the site today, waited 15 minutes for it to take and it killed when he adminstered the first injection. He then applied a topical anesthetic cream that took half an hour to numb me up. On top of this, the tissue is so hard, his arm actually shakes when he's pushing the needle in.
When I signed on to have this thyroidectomy, I had no idea this is what I'd be in for. I honestly don't know if I would have done it, if I'd known what I know now.
And did I mention, it's been a bit of an emotional adjustment? The neck I've known for 34 years is different---forever. I hate looking at this thing. It's a blemish I could definitely live without.
Sorry for the selfish rant.
Onto happier subjects---like the fact that I've grown to LOVE the Leslieville area of Toronto. This pocket of the T-dot really floats my boat. Even though I've never been to the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, I have a feeling the two might be sisters. Bristling with creativity and a laid back, anti-scenester vibe, L-ville seems to know the recipe for smart local business development that supports independents and manages to keep its ego in check. One can only hope that it fends off the fate of places like West Queen West and 48 Abell Street...
I'm going to do my part as a Leslieville fan and attend the First Annual Holiday Wanderlust this Thursday... can't wait.
